'Clark Kent': Phoenix superman is back in the building

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American import Ian Clark has erased any doubt he was a difference-maker in South East Melbourne's quest for its first NBL title in club history after pouring in 23 points in the road team's dominated 31-point win in Round 20 of NBL26 in New Zealand on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Clark joined the Phoenix on December 29 against the JackJumpers and scored in single figures in his first five games but since then has been on a tear.

He dropped 23 on the Breakers on 7-from-16 from the field in just 20 minutes. The win took South East Melbourne to the top of the standings after the 36ers dropped 100-99 to the Illawarra Hawks on the road.

Key Details

• Round: 20
• Result: South East Melbourne Phoenix 114 def. New Zealand Breakers 83
• When: Wednesday, 5th February 2026
• Where: Eventfinda Stadium, Auckland
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Ian Clark (Phoenix) starred with 23 points, one rebound, one assist and two steals in 20 minutes.
• Izaiah Brockington (Breakers) scored 19 points, three rebounds and one assist in 29 minutes.

What Happened

The Phoenix established their authority early and never looked back, turning what promised to be a competitive encounter into a comprehensive rout. South East Melbourne's balanced offensive attack proved too much for the home side, as they consistently found open looks and converted at a solid clip throughout the contest.

Ian Clark was simply unstoppable from the opening tip, showcasing his veteran ability with a masterful shooting display. The experienced guard connected on 7-from-16 from the field, including 3-from-8 from downtown, while also contributing defensively with two steals. His efficiency and shot selection were exemplary as he consistently found ways to score against the Breakers' defense.

Supporting Clark's heroics was an outstanding all-round effort from the Phoenix roster. Nathan Sobey added 21 points on 8-from-21 shooting, including three triples, while Malique Lewis dominated the paint with 13 points and 10 boards for a double-double, also dishing out six dimes. The versatile Lewis was particularly effective, shooting an impressive 4-from-6 from the field while controlling the glass and facilitating offense for his teammates.

The Breakers struggled to match Phoenix's intensity and execution, despite valiant individual efforts. Izaiah Brockington led the scoring with 19 points but shot an inconsistent 7-from-16 from the field. Tai Webster provided a spark with 16 points on efficient 7-from-11 shooting, while captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright contributed 15 points and five assists but was hampered by six turnovers that disrupted the team's offensive flow.

Phoenix's superior shooting accuracy proved decisive in the outcome. They connected on 40-from-94 attempts (42.6%) from the field and were solid from beyond the arc, making 13-from-37 attempts (35.1%) from downtown. In contrast, the Breakers managed just 28-from-68 (41.2%) from the field and struggled mightily from three-point range, converting a poor 5-from-20 attempts (25%). The visitors also dominated the boards 54-48, with their superior rebounding creating additional scoring opportunities while limiting the Breakers to single chances on offense.

This comprehensive victory strengthens Phoenix's position in the NBL standings as they continue their push towards the playoffs.